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Organic material mulches, when properly used, can greatly contribute to the health and vigor of vegetables and other plants by suppressing weeds, conserving soil moisture, limiting erosion and regulating soil temperature. One organic material used as mulch is shredded or chipped cedar, which is prized for its durability, attractive appearance, fragrance and ability to repel some pests. Properly applying cedar mulch around vegetables maximizes its benefits and avoids accidentally harming the plants.

1

Spread cedar mulch out loosely around vegetable plants and between rows. Create a uniform layer of mulch no more than 2 to 3 inches thick.

2

Pull the cedar mulch back 6 inches from the stems of any vegetable plant, as mulch in contact with vegetable plant stems can trap moisture against the plant and leave it vulnerable to rot. Additionally, pull cedar mulch back from any areas where you will still plant seeds or where sown seeds have yet to germinate and emerge, as a mulch layer can prevent germination or seedling emergence.

3

Fluff up or flip the cedar mulch layer whenever it appears compacted or faded during the growing season.

4

Rake the cedar mulch off of the soil surface after you have finished harvesting annual vegetable crops and before you cultivate the soil. Re-implement the mulch temporarily to keep the soil surface covered, if desired, or wait until after you plant the next crop of annual vegetables. Leave cedar mulch around perennial vegetables like asparagus and rhubarb.

5

Loosen and replenish the cedar mulch around perennial vegetables as needed year-round to maintain a loose 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch.

Things You Will Need

Cedar mulch

Garden fork or rake

Warnings

If the cedar mulch was stored improperly, it may have undergone anaerobic processes and have a damagingly low pH. This bad mulch will have a sour or foul smell and can injure or kill vegetables you spread it around, so do not use it.

If the vegetable plants were seriously bothered by diseases or pests, pathogens or pests may survive between growing seasons in the mulch. Either dispose of and replace the mulch or heat it sufficiently through solarization or composting.